So where’s the best place to get Mexican food in Calgary? I don’t usually write about anything of such specific local interest, but I thought someone in the Calgary area might be interested in our discoveries of good restaurants. Things are changing fast, so who knows how long the information may be relevant!
When we first came to Calgary, there were a few, then they seemed to disappear for a while. Now they’re popping up all over the place, and there’s no possible way we could ever eat at them all. No doubt part of the reason is that more and more Mexicans are coming to live in Calgary.
Anyway, from the ones that we have tried over the past few years, here’s what we think…
El Sombrero: My favourite. Small, a little more expensive than some, but the portions are large and the food is excellent. On 17th Avenue SW, I believe it’s just open for lunch and dinner.
El Bombazo Latino Market: Not just Mexican, but fabulous food. Be prepared to wait – it will all be cooked fresh for you while you sit and watch Mexican TV. But WOW is it worth the wait. My mouth is watering. There’s also a small latin market here where you can buy spices, canned goods, refrescos, and even pan dulce.
Salt and Pepper Mexican Restaurante: There’s actually three of these in town, I think. I wouldn’t rate them quite as high as the ones above, but very good.
Boca Loca: Ok, I’ve never actually eaten here. This is mainly a Mexican market, though they do serve lunches. I just mention it because they do have a very wide selection of Mexican foods. Just don’t expect it to be as cheap as it was when you were in Mexico. There are two of these in town.
Julio’s Barrio: This restaurant is a chain in Calgary and in Edmonton. Everyone asks us about it because it’s in a prominent location in the city, and everyone sees it driving by. Well, the decor is pretty cool, and the food was good, but just didn’t taste like Mexico. I’m afraid it’s last on our list (and I didn’t list them all. If I had, it would still be last).
There are many more – have you tried one you liked? Disagree with the order I put these in? Leave a comment!
9 April 2007 @ 3:51 pm
I just found this site while looking for places that sell mexican spices, etc. in Calgary… I’ve been in a few mexican restaurants…My 2 favourite places are Juan’s restaurant, downtown… and Salt n Pepper… got the closest taste to traditional mexican food. And you’re right Boca Loca is good but not cheap.
Thanks for the comment about Bombazo Latino I will try it asap!! 🙂
Always craving my mexican food 🙂
9 April 2007 @ 3:57 pm
Good to hear from you, MariaElena! Let me know how it goes. 🙂